What will I learn on this module?
This module will provide you with technical knowledge regarding routing and switching strategies for data packets in computer networks, how to design Local Area Networks (LANs) using routers and switches and a hands-on experience of implementing LANs. NETWORK SWITCHING AND ROUTING module will prepare you for later ‘Enterprise Networks and Security’ module.
Moreover, this module will prepare you for placement opportunities in the domain of networks. A particular feature of the module is that it closely follows the programme for CCNA 2 of Cisco’s Networking Academy programme, and you will have the opportunity to get the CCNA2 certification. This module will equip you with skills that are much sought after by the employers looking for candidates with practical experience in network design and development while the CCNA2 certification is an added benefit that will enhance your career opportunities.
There is an emphasis on practical work in the delivery of the module and you will have an opportunity to work directly with industry standard networking hardware and software at the Northumbria’s state-of-the-art CISCO-based computer labs. The main assignment (100%) will be the final assessment that will allow you to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, workshops, and independent learning. The lectures will provide you with the theoretical concepts and you will apply the concepts on CISCO routers and switches in the workshop sessions. The workshop sessions will be conducted at the Northumbria’s CIS building computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software.
The lectures will cover theories and concepts that will enable you to tackle a series of guided exercises. You will work on these during workshops and hands-on sessions in Northumbria’s CIS building computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
During your lab classes, academic support will be available to you to guide you through the exercises, with a strong focus on practical work on industry standard hardware and software. You will receive informal feedback on your progress throughout your lab classes. Homework exercises using the provided network simulator are designed to give you automated detailed feedback on your completion rate of the exercises undertaken.
You will be supported by lecturers during the timetabled sessions when you will receive feedback on your work. The University’s eLearning Portal offers remote access to all lecture and seminar materials to reinforce your learning. In addition, the university library offers support for all students through providing electronic resources
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 - Analyse and evaluate the function and implementation of routers and switches in modern and secure computer networks.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML02 - Solve well defined network problems through configuration, troubleshooting and maintenance of both industry standard routers and switches.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML03 – Effectively formulate responses to well defined problems in both written and oral form.
How will I be assessed?
There will be
Summative assessment:
(1) An individual assignment (100%). This assignment covers LOs 1, 2 and 3.
The individual assignment allows you to research topics covered during the module further. This assignment gives you the opportunity to analyse and evaluate the function of routers, switches, and related technologies and protocols in modern Local Area Networks. The word limit will be 3500 words.
You will be given the opportunity to be formatively assessed on a weekly basis throughout the semester through short online feedback tests as part of your online CCNA 2 learning.
Pre-requisite(s)
NA
Co-requisite(s)
NA
Module abstract
Can you build your own local network? Yes! you can. This module will provide you a hands-on experience of working with switches and routers at Northumbria’s state-of-the-art computer labs. You will configure and trouble shoot networks providing you with insights into how networks operate. The learning and teaching strategy are designed to ensure that the CCNA content is incorporated into the module and, where necessary, supplemented, in such a way as to ensure that you attain the level of professional competence and understanding. And there is more, you will have the option to get the CISCO CCNA2 certification. Theory is followed by workshop session where you will be introduced to CISCO-based routers and switches. You will apply the acquired theoretical and practical knowledge in building a substantial project.
Course info
UCAS Code G417
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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